Natural Cures for Anxiety

When Can Dogs Really Benefit From Acupuncture?

25 May 2022

Sergio Reyes

For years, acupuncture has given humans relief from pain and other health concerns. Now, veterinarians are increasingly offering and recommending acupuncture for their canine patients. But when can a dog benefit from acupuncture? Here are some key times when it's a good idea to schedule a session for your furry friend.

Anxiety  

Some dogs are more prone to anxiety than others. They may become anxious when there are changes in the home, such as if you bring home a baby or a new pet. They may also become anxious if you move, or if someone in your home is ill. Anxiety can cause dogs to act out, and in other cases, isolate and distance themselves from their owners. Acupuncture is a great way to help reduce anxiety in dogs. The needles deactivate certain neural pathways and help reduce the production of neurotransmitters that are associated with anxiety and worry. Your dog may need a session while they're adapting to something new, or they may benefit from ongoing treatments to keep them more comfortable.

Arthritis Pain

Dogs often develop arthritis as they get older. The joint pain caused by arthritis can make them less apt to run, play, and even jump up on the couch. There's no cure for arthritis, but its symptoms can be managed. Acupuncture is a safe way to manage arthritis pain. It can be used in conjunction with any pain relievers or joint supplements that your vet also recommends. Or, if your dog does not respond well to these pills, you can look into acupuncture as an alternative. Once your dog has a few sessions and their pain is under closer control, they may start to become more active which can help ease their arthritis pain even further.

Cancer

When a dog is diagnosed with cancer, radiation and chemotherapy are not always options. The vets often instead focus on treatments that keep the dog comfortable while cancer runs its course. Acupuncture can be a good option in this case. It will not only help ease the pain associated with cancer but can keep your dog relaxed and at ease. In some cases, keeping your dog calm through acupuncture may help their body heal and better fight cancer.

So many dogs can benefit from pet acupuncture — not just those that fall into the categories above. If you think your dog would benefit from this treatment, reach out to a vet who offers these services

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